[ADD] sign: legality of electronic signatures in germany

closes odoo/documentation#11249

X-original-commit: 74437b0e74
Signed-off-by: Xavier Platteau (xpl) <xpl@odoo.com>

content/applications/productivity/sign.rst

@@ -57,6 +57,9 @@ as:
 #. Document traceability and inalterability (any alteration made to a signed document is detected by
    Odoo with the use of cryptographic proofs)
 
+.. note::
+   :doc:`Documentation for Germany <sign/germany>`
+
 United States of America
 ------------------------
 

content/applications/productivity/sign/germany.rst

@@ -0,0 +1,74 @@
+:orphan:
+
+=============================
+Odoo Sign legality in Germany
+=============================
+
+:doc:`Odoo Sign <../sign>` is your trusted partner for secure, efficient, and legally compliant
+electronic signatures in Germany.
+
+Legal framework for electronic signatures in Germany
+====================================================
+
+In Germany, electronic signatures are regulated under `eIDAS Regulation No. 910/2014
+<https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv%3AOJ.L_.2014.257.01.0073.01.ENG>`_ and
+the `Trust Services Act <https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/vdg/BJNR274510017.html>`_. The law
+establishes the legal basis for acknowledging electronic records, contracts, and digital signatures.
+The key points of the law include:
+
+- **Legal recognition**: electronic signatures are legally equivalent to handwritten signatures if
+  they meet certain criteria.
+- **Reliability and security**: electronic signatures must be created with a secure method that can
+  reliably identify the signatory and ensure the integrity of the signed document.
+- **Qualified signature**: there are certain use cases that require a qualified signature issued by
+  a trust service provider.
+
+How Odoo Sign complies with German regulations
+==============================================
+
+Odoo Sign ensures full compliance with the Electronic Signature Law of Germany by incorporating the
+following features:
+
+- **Secure signature creation**: Odoo Sign utilizes advanced cryptographic techniques to ensure the
+  authenticity and integrity of electronic signatures.
+- **Third-party signature authenticator**: Odoo Online serves as an independent validation mechanism
+  that adds an extra layer of security to the procurement process.
+- **Audit trails**: detailed audit logs are maintained to provide evidence of the signing process,
+  including timestamps, IP addresses, and identity verification.
+- **Cryptographic traceability and immutability**: Odoo Sign ensures that any operation is logged
+  securely. An audit log provides full transparency to all parties while preserving private data.
+- **Multiple authentication means**: authentication by SMS, email, geoIP or handwritten electronic
+  signature.
+
+Types of documents you can sign with Odoo Sign
+==============================================
+
+Odoo Sign is versatile and can be used for a wide range of documents, including but not limited to:
+
+- **Contracts and agreements**: business contracts, employment agreements, and service contracts.
+- **Financial documents**: loan agreements, investment documents, and financial reports.
+- **HR documents**: employee onboarding forms, non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), and performance
+  reviews.
+- **Commercial transactions**: purchase orders, sales agreements, and supplier contracts.
+
+Potential exceptions
+====================
+
+While Odoo Sign is broadly applicable, there are certain exceptions where electronic signatures may
+not be suitable or legally recognized in Germany:
+
+- **Wills and trusts**: documents related to inheritance, wills, and trusts often require
+  handwritten signatures.
+- **Real estate transactions**: some property transactions may still require notarized handwritten
+  signatures.
+- **Government forms**: specific government forms and applications may mandate physical signatures.
+
+.. admonition:: Disclaimer
+
+   The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not
+   constitute legal advice. While Odoo Sign complies with the Electronic Signature Law of Germany,
+   users should consult with legal professionals to ensure specific document types and use cases
+   meet all legal requirements. Compliance with additional industry-specific regulations may also be
+   necessary.
+
+*Last updated: June 21, 2024*